Top exercise pregnancy resources

Although your exercise options are limited during pregnancy, a number of excellent choices exist. Running or jogging, walking, aerobic dance, bicycling, swimming, and tennis can all be pursued to one degree or another during pregnancy. Some activities should be taken up before you conceive if you wish to continue them while you are pregnant.

If you have always wanted to be a runner, all the experts agree you should start before conception, otherwise your muscles may not be able to support your loosening joints. Many women who have been runners or joggers for some time before they become pregnant continue to pursue these activities without harm. Always check with your doctor first, and pay attention to your body for signs of fatigue. Since changes in your body make you more susceptible to injury, choose your running path carefully so that you do not trip. Expect your performance to decrease as your pregnancy progresses. Also, after the fifth month, you may be courting lower-back pain, since your abdominal muscles tend to be weakened by the pull of gravity. Play it safe by reducing the intensity and duration of your workouts. Always wear a good support bra and shoes with firm support.

You can start brisk walking anytime, including during pregnancy, but begin slowly. Keep in mind that the whole idea is to increase your activity level gradually. Begin with 5 to 10 minutes at a time and slowly increase to 20 or 30 minutes three or four times per week. If temperature and humidity are high, do not exercise outdoors.